Book Review: The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch

“. . . if we don't learn to put technology, in all its form, in its proper place, we will miss out on many of the best parts of life in a family.” (17)

Title:  The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place
Author: Andy Crouch
Publisher:  Baker Books
Release Date:  April 18, 2017
Genre: Non-Fiction 



Reclaiming real life in a world of devices

Making good choices about technology in our families is more than just using internet filters and determining screen-time limits for our children. It's about building character, wisdom, and courage rather than accepting technology's promises of ease and instant gratification. It's about developing our heart, mind, soul, and strength when we're tempted to settle for entertainment and consumer satisfaction. And it's definitely not just about the kids.

Alongside in-depth original research from Barna Group that shows how families are wrestling with technology's new realities, Andy Crouch takes parents beyond the typical questions of what, where, and when to show us that in a world full of devices, there's a way to choose a better life than we've imagined. 



The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch should be read by every parent or any family. It's insightful and highly applicable, especially in this technologically inclined era. Though it is categorized in the "Christian Living" section, besides a chapter that focused on the worship aspect, the emphasis elsewhere isn't forceful or intense. In other words, I don't find this preachy at all. Therefore, I think it will be great for all families, Christian or not. The author has a way with his words that seem approachable. He's not saying technology is bad or to the extreme that all should avoid it.

“The proper place for technology won't be exactly the same for every family, and it is not the same at every season of our lives..” (19)
With understanding as a parent, he provides personal examples and understanding on the good and the bad. Even for someone who isn't a parent yet, like myself, The Tech-Wise Family opens for appreciation for the practicality of technology, but also warn against the over indulgence or misuse of it, creating barriers between family members, even if that consists of just husband and wife.  There's a certain perception when it comes to a "tech-wise" family, as well as what media portrays as, but I agree with the author in the fact of what the cost of it can be.

“The truth is that our children, just like us, will spend far too much of their lives tethered to glowing rectangles.  We owe them, at the very minimum, early years of real, embodied, difficult, rewarding learning, the kind that screens cannot provide. ” (131)

As a Christian, I also appreciate how the author does include the relation of technology and church, and Christian living.  It's a nice reminder, or a welcome insight. The acuity towards faith and family definitely adds to the prowess of The Tech-Wise Family that I do hope will be a blessing to all who reads it.

“Worship reminds us of the shape of true life. One of the biggest threats to wisdom and virtue in a technological age is that we can easily settle for something less than the best. ” (189)


Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.

For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.


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Andy Crouch--author, speaker, musician, and dad--has shaped the way our generation sees culture, creativity, and the gospel. In addition to his books Culture Making, Playing God, and Strong and Weak, his work has been featured in Time, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and Lecrae's 2014 single "Non-Fiction." He was executive editor of Christianity Today from 2012 to 2016 and is now senior strategist for communication at the John Templeton Foundation. He lives with his family in Pennsylvania.

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